Thomas the Tank Engine Arrives on the iPad

Thomas & Friends: Misty Island Rescue for iPad is the first Thomas & Friends app designed specifically for the iPad, and it has hit the App Store this week.

This brings another classic children’s favorite to the iPad. I know my daughter used to adore the Thomas the Tank Engine books, TV shows, and DVDs. Here’s more detail on the app, straight from its launch release:

Based on the animated feature-length movie, Misty Island Rescue for iPad ushers the iconic blue engine into the multimedia era with a unique, dynamic iPad app where children can experience Thomas like never before. The app tells the popular story with vibrant multi-touch animation and narration and also includes engine and story-related sound effects, games, CG-animated video, and art activities, enabling children and families to engage in the story via multiple touch points.

In Misty Island Rescue, Thomas leaves the Island of Sodor for the very first time to build a new Search and Rescue Center. When Thomas helps a friend in need, he is rewarded with an exciting trip to the Mainland. Along the way, he gets lost at sea and finds himself on the mysterious Misty Island, where he meets new friends Bash, Dash, and Ferdinand. Together they discover the secrets of Misty Island and help Thomas find his way home.

The app is published by Callaway Digital Arts – who also publish the excellent Miss Spider books for iOS – Miss Spider’s Tea Party (for the iPad, iPhone, and iPod Touch) and Miss Spider’s Bedtime Story (for the iPad). They’ve partnered with HIT Entertainment on this one, and they’re planning to release a series of apps based on the Thomas & Friends brand.

I’m very glad to see Thomas the Tank Engine hitting the iPad. I have a feeling my daughter is going to say she doesn’t like him anymore; she is all of 7.5 now and has moved on to Hannah Montana and others, sadly – but I think I’ll sneak a peek at the app anyway.